Expo Rural del Prado: The traditional agro-industrial festival that unites the countryside and the city
This Friday, September 5th, one of Uruguay's most iconic events kicks off: the Prado Rural Expo . With the grounds fully stocked and the final details finalized, the 120th International Livestock Exposition and Agro-Industrial and Commercial Showcase will open its doors to the public. This year's new name is changed, now known as the Prado Rural Expo , an initiative of the Rural Association of Uruguay (ARU) as part of its 154-year history. The fair will run for ten days, until Sunday, September 14th, with no rain delays, at the traditional venue in the Prado neighborhood of Montevideo.
History and modernization of the property
The exhibition's history dates back to 1883, when the ARU organized the first National Exhibition in the area of what is now Plaza de los Treinta y Tres Orientales. However, the current venue, recognized as a Historic Monument, has been in use since 1913. This year, the organization continues with the modernization of the facilities. The new floor will be inaugurated in Warehouse 1, whose remodeling began the previous year. Restoration work on Warehouse 2 is planned to begin in late 2025, while much of the work on Warehouse 3 has already been completed. The goal is for all three large warehouses to be fully restored by the 2026 edition.
Stars, access and schedules
The livestock exhibition will feature more than 2,000 animals. Among them, 1,266 registered animals of the three main species: cattle, sheep, and horses. There will also be birds, rabbits, pigs, goats, and dogs participating in various competitions and auctions. Access to the grounds is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. To enter the Plaza Prado space at night, please check the official website for prices and special hours. The public can enter via Lucas Obes Avenue, Atilio Pelossi Street, or through the two entrances on José de Buschental Avenue.
Authorities present and highlighted activities
Several officials and ministers are expected to visit. The President of the Republic, Yamandú Orsi, is scheduled to visit on Wednesday the 10th. During that day, he will tour the grounds, meet with ARU authorities, and participate in the crowning of the grand champions in the ring. The opening ceremony will take place this Friday the 5th at 2:00 p.m., with speeches by ARU authorities and the Mayor of Montevideo, Mario Bergara. The closing ceremony, to be held on Saturday the 13th, will feature the participation of the Minister of Livestock, Agriculture, and Fisheries (MGAP), Alfredo Fratti, and will conclude with the traditional Grand Champions Parade.
